Jewelry Torches Safety SOP

Safety glasses must be worn at all times when using the jewelers torch (and whenever in the workshop at Lansing Makers Network).

Gloves may be worn, but should be loose so that the can be removed quickly in case something hot (solder) gets into them. Also, do not get gloves wet. Grabbing something hot with wet gloves can result in steam burns. Obviously gloves should not be significantly flammable or synthetic, leather is best

Clothes and shoes should not be made of synthetic materials (e.g. nylon) as they can melt and adhere to skin!

Leather or Canvas shoes are good.

Cotton clothes which will burn, rather than melt are best.

Torches use a flammable gas to generate their heat.

Be sure the gas supply is turned off when finishing your work.

Carefully follow SOPs for starting and working the jewelers torches.

Long hair should be tied back and out of the way

Metal that is hot enough to burn you can look like cold metal.

Always check metal objects before attempting to pick them up.

This includes (but is not limited to) work pieces, third hands, soldering blocks, and tools.

Keep flammable items clear of your workspace.

be mindful of the location of the nearest fire extinguisher.

In case of fire, turn off propane and oxygen valves first. Then extinguish the fire by normal means.

Soldering causes dangerous fumes

Solder in an open area with ventilation

Compressed Gas Cylinders can be dangerous if improperly handled.

Oxygen cylinders are pressurized to 2250 psi. Ga cylinders are filled with flammable propane.